Despite new permissive state law, Worthington proposes fireworks ban
The city of Worthington has proposed banning fireworks throughout the city ahead of Independence Day despite their legalization at the state level for certain days.
Gov. Mike DeWine signed a bill in November that legalized the use of fireworks throughout the state on certain days and holidays. The city previously relied on state law for the prohibition or use of fireworks throughout the city but no longer will be able to do that when the bill takes effect July 1 – just in time for July 4.
Worthington City Council introduced the legislation May 16, with a public hearing scheduled for June 6.
Under the proposed legislation, the use of fireworks in the city would continue and possession of fireworks with intent to discharge them in the city would be prohibited.
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According to a Worthington city staff memo, “it is the opinion of (Worthington Fire Chief Mark Zambito) that the discharge of consumer grade fireworks poses a significant danger to the public, and may cause serious injuries, as well as significant property damage, especially in densely populated residential and business areas."
It continues: “In addition, the discharge of consumer grade fireworks causes significant disturbance of the public peace and residents’ quiet enjoyment of their homes.”
Worthington law director Tom Lindsey said the city has the authority to enforce its own fireworks laws not only through home-rule provisions under the Ohio Constitution but also because of an amendment in the bill that allows municipalities to ban the use of fireworks at their discretion.
Lindsey said if it passes, the law would penalize first offenders with a first-degree misdemeanor, with a fine up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
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This article originally appeared on ThisWeek: Despite new permissive state law, Worthington proposes fireworks ban
